Automotive Autonomy and Ownership Debates
Discussions cover regulatory approvals for autonomous driving systems like Tesla's Full Self-Driving in Europe, coupled with concerns over data security and vehicle lockouts involving companies like Ford.
July 2022
BMW implements heated seats subscription model
BMW began offering heated seats via a subscription model. This contrasts with outright ownership, as highlighted in the community discussion.
Source ↗February 2024
Ford files patent for emotion monitoring truck
Ford filed a patent (US20240249706A1) for a truck system capable of monitoring a driver’s face, eyes, and emotions. This technology supposedly assesses a person's 'fitness to drive' and controls vehicle usability.
Source ↗April 2026
Tesla gets green light for FSD in the Netherlands from RDW
The Dutch vehicle approval organization, RDW, deemed Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) semi-autonomous driving system safe to operate. Tesla stated that collisions with FSD (Supervised) are up to 'seven-times less likely per kilometer driven compared to manual driving alone'.
Source ↗California (US) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigates Tesla's FSD safety
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched an investigation into the safety of Tesla's self-driving technology. The probe escalated to an 'Engineering Analysis' to evaluate the system’s ability to operate in reduced roadway visibility.
Source ↗PM Mark Carney unveils China–Canada deal for EVs
Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled a deal allowing 49,000 Chinese EVs to enter Ottawa annually. The tariff for these vehicles was reduced to 6.1%.
Source ↗Mark Carney unveils deal allowing 49,000 Chinese EVs to Canada
Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled a deal to allow 49,000 Chinese Electric Vehicles (EVs) into Ottawa annually. The deal includes a reduced tariff of 6.1% on these vehicles.
Source ↗Prime Minister Carney unveiled deal for Chinese EVs entering Canada
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a deal allowing 49,000 Chinese EVs to enter Ottawa annually. The deal established a reduced tariff rate of 6.1% for these vehicles.
Source ↗May 2026
California DMV updates AV regulations
The California DMV announced new rules allowing police to cite AV companies for moving violations. These rules also mandate that companies respond to emergency officials within 30 seconds.
Source ↗